Poland corn farmers face gas crisis and rising costs

Corn growers in Poland are experiencing a significant crisis due to a sharp increase in propane prices and a decrease in gas availability. Propane, which is essential for drying corn harvested with high moisture levels, has seen prices rise by over 100 percent year-over-year. In some regions, prices have climbed from approximately 1.45 PLN/l last year to between 3.20 and 4.00 PLN/l net.

The shortage is impacting operations, with reports of gas-powered dryers standing idle and grain collection being suspended in several locations. This occurs despite high yields in many areas, as the local climate requires intensive drying to reduce moisture from over 30 percent down to the 14 percent level required for safe storage.

Separately, legal concerns have emerged regarding existing corn sales contracts. Farmers who signed agreements at lower prices earlier in the year are seeking advice on whether they can renegotiate or terminate contracts to benefit from market shifts, though experts note that failure to honor agreements typically carries penalties such as contractual fines or compensation for damages.